Name: Sweet Chili Chicken
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 13 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 24 oz lightly breaded chicken breast pieces (frozen); 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1 tsp garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger paste; 2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced (for topping); 1/2 tsp sesame seeds, optional (for topping)

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This Sweet Chili Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. Perfect over rice, it’s a simple weeknight dinner that comes together in minutes with bold Asian-inspired flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Using pre-breaded chicken saves time while the homemade sauce provides a balanced mix of sweet, salty, and tangy. It’s ideal for busy nights when you want something quick, satisfying, and delicious.

Sweet Chili Chicken

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

24 oz lightly breaded chicken breast pieces (frozen)
1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger paste
2 tbsp green onions, thinly sliced (for topping)
1/2 tsp sesame seeds, optional (for topping)

directions

Cook the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer or oven according to package instructions until crispy.
- For extra crispiness, increase the cooking temperature by 25°F and extend the time by 4–5 minutes, shaking halfway through.
While the chicken cooks, heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
In the pan, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Add the crispy chicken pieces to the pan and stir until evenly coated in sauce.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately over rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Calories: Approximately 362 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicier Kick: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
Protein Swap: Try with shrimp, tofu, or grilled chicken strips instead of breaded chicken.
Low-Sugar Option: Use a reduced-sugar sweet chili sauce.
Grain-Free: Serve over cauliflower rice or steamed veggies.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until hot. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use homemade breaded chicken?

Yes, just cook the chicken until golden and crispy before tossing it in the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then reheat and combine just before serving.

Is this dish very spicy?

It’s mild to medium. Adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or using a spicier chili sauce if desired.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Just ensure they’re fully cooked and crispy.

What rice pairs best with this?

Jasmine or basmati rice are great choices, but you can also use brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breaded chicken and tamari instead of soy sauce.

What can I serve with Sweet Chili Chicken?

Steamed vegetables, spring rolls, or a cucumber salad make great sides.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, though the texture may change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely, especially if you like extra sauce for drizzling over rice.

How do I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer it longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) and stir until thickened.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken is an easy, flavorful meal that brings a delicious fusion of sweet and spicy to your dinner table. With minimal prep and bold flavors, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.